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Government of Canada Travel Advisory

Last Updated: March 13, 2018 9:38 EST1. RECENT UPDATESLaws and culture - Identity checks.2. ADVISORIESFrance - Exercise a high degree of cautionExercise a high degree of caution in France due to the current elevated threat of terrorism.3. SECURITYCrimePetty crimes (pickpocketing and purse snatching) occur in major tourist areas, in department stores, in train and bus stations and aboard public transport, especially in larger cities. Purse snatchers operate both on foot and on motorcycles. These thieves are very skilled and often work in groups. Limit the use of mobile phones while on public transportation to avoid attracting attention.There have been reports of violent attacks on tourists by groups of young people. These usually take place at night around major tourist attractions and railway stations in Paris, the trains (RER) connecting Paris to its suburbs and at main railway stations in other large cities.On the roadThere is a high frequency of vehicle break-ins. Leave nothing in view in the vehicle and above all do not leave valuable objects, passports and other travel documents, money or credit cards in a vehicle. Use secure parking facilities where available, especially overnight. Be particularly vigilant when renting automobiles, as rented vehicles are a target of choice.Theft of parked cars or their contents is particularly common on beach roads in the south of France and at highway rest stops throughout the country, especially during the summer when there are a high number of travellers.Always be suspicious if individuals signal for you to stop on the highway. Drivers are often tricked into stopping their cars by thieves who either obstruct the road or distract the driver (for example, by flashing their headlights). They may also pretend that you have a flat tire (which they sometimes puncture themselves). Once the vehicle is stopped, the thieves seize the opportunity to steal a bag or other valuable objects. Aggravated thefts sometimes occur at isolated rest stops along highways.Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights, as bags are often snatched from the front passenger seat by thieves travelling on scooters. Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times.Victims of crimeIf you are robbed, go to the nearest commissariat de police (police station) to report the crime. They will provide you with a declaration of theft. Keep a copy of this document, as you will need it if you require a new passport or wish to make an insurance claim. If the theft occurred in the metro, you may ask for assistance from a metro agent, who will direct you to the nearest police station.TerrorismThere is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. In France, separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place. The attacks were indiscriminate and targeted public places, including an entertainment venue, restaurants and tourist sites. While the majority of attacks have occurred in Paris and surrounding areas, the likelihood of an attack elsewhere in France cannot be ruled out. Further attacks in Europe are also likely.Targets could include:government buildings, including schoolsplaces of worshipairports and other transportation hubs and networkspublic areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreignersAlways be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.Expect increased security measures and police/military presence at all points of entry (road, rail, sea and air) and in public areas.More information about the terrorist threat in France - France's Ministère de l'interieur (Department of Interior, in French only)Vigipirate alert systemVigipirate is a French Government threat alert system. The system is in place to protect the country's population, infrastructure and institutions, and to prepare response measures in the case of attack.Current terrorism threat alert level in France – Vigipirate system (in French only)Mobile applicationFrance's Ministère de l'interieur (Department of interior) has launched an app that alerts users in the event of a major crisis in France. The SAIP (système d'alerte et d'information des populations) app is available in English and French on iOS and Android platforms.More information about the SAIP app – France's Ministère de l'intérieurFraudFraudulent electronic readout devices are sometimes used at automated banking machines (ABMs) in France. These devices are designed to capture the account information stored on the card's magnetic strip through a card reader fixed over the legitimate reader. The customer's PIN is recorded with a small video camera installed above the keypad. The victim's banking information is then sold or traded online. To avoid being a victim of this fraud, use ABMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business, avoid card readers with an irregular aspect, cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN and check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements.Some bars and “cabarets” have been known to overcharge customers for drinks. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay.DemonstrationsStrikes, student demonstrations, labour unrest and other protests may occur occasionally. These can lead to significant disruptions to public transportation and postal services.Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, as they have the potential to suddenly turn violent. Follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local media.Road safetyRoads in France are well maintained. Drive defensively and obey traffic regulations. Excessive speeding poses a risk.Public transportationMajor cities have an effective public transportation system and are served by an extensive intercity rail network.Use only officially marked taxis and do not share them with strangers.Occasional strike action and migrant activity in and around Calais can cause delays when using cross-channel services to travel to and from the United Kingdom. Contact your transportation carrier for up-to-date information and monitor local news.Air travelWe do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.General information about foreign domestic airlinesMountain activitiesTowns and ski resorts may be snowed in and roads made impassable after heavy snowfalls. There is a risk of avalanches, especially following heavy snowfalls, and some have resulted in deaths.If you intend to do mountaineering or skiing:never practice these activities alone;always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company;buy travel health insurance that covers helicopter rescue and medical evacuation;ensure your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity;advise a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp;know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal;sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service; and,obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture away from marked trails or slopes.If you are planning a mountaineering or skiing holiday, consult the Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA, national association for the study of snow and avalanches, site in French) for information on weather and safety conditions, and follow the advice carefully.General safety informationNever leave your bags unsupervised at a ticket office or a registration desk. Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Ensure as well that your credit and debit cards, cash and any other financial resources are not all kept in the same place. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.There has been a significant increase in the number of migrants and refugees entering Europe. Some countries have already experienced disruptions to transportation services, including at ferry ports and railway stations, and have seen major delays at border crossings. The situation also heightens the potential for demonstrations that could turn violent without warning, particularly at railway stations and other transportation hubs. If you are travelling in the region, monitor local news and follow the advice of local authorities, and contact your transport carrier to determine whether the situation could disrupt your travel.4. ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTSEvery country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination's entry or exit requirements.We have obtained the information on this page from the French authorities. It can, however, change at any time.Verify this information with foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada.Customs officials may ask you to show them a return ticket or proof of onward travel.Detailed information on documents required to enter France - Public service of France (in French only)Schengen areaFrance is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.General information about the Schengen areaForeign diplomatic missions and consulates in CanadaPassportEntry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.Regular Canadian passportYour passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.Passport for official travelDifferent entry rules may apply.Official travelOther travel documentsDifferent entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.Useful linksForeign diplomatic missions and consulates in CanadaCanadian passportsTemporary border controlsThe French government has reintroduced internal border controls at certain border crossings. Canadians may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering France, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.VisasTourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days*Long-stay or residency visa: Required for stays longer than 90 daysWork permit: RequiredStudent visa: Required for stays longer than 90 days* The 90-day period begins upon initial entry into any country of the Schengen area. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country within any 180-day period.Children and travelTo leave France, any child under the age of 18 who normally resides in France must be accompanied by at least one parent. Children travelling without at least one parent must be in possession of an authorization to leave the country signed by one of the parents, as well as a photocopy of the signing parent's identification.For more information and a copy of the authorization to leave the country form, consult the Official French public service website (available in French).See Children for more information on special documentation requirements.Yellow feverLearn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).5. HEALTHMedical services and facilitiesGood medical care is widely available. You may be required to pay in advance, especially if you do not have travel insurance.6. LAWS AND CULTUREYou must abide by local laws.Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.Canada and France are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in France to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and French authorities.Dual citizenshipDual citizenship is legally recognized in France.If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of France, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.General information for travellers with dual citizenshipAlthough France recognizes dual citizenship, dual citizens on French soil are considered French citizens and are subject to French laws.Identity checksYou must carry your passport at all times.Keep photocopies or digital copies of the following documents in case of loss of seizure:the identification page of your passportyour birth certificateyour Canadian citizenship carddriver's licenceKeep originals and copies in separate safe locations.It is illegal to cover your face in public places in France, including in international arrivals areas at airports. Failure to comply can lead to a heavy fine. There are no exemptions for tourists or for religious reasons.More about the law prohibiting face coverings in public places – French administration service (in French only)Illegal drugsPenalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.Public transportationWhen using public transportation throughout France, you must retain your validated ticket until you exit the system. Failure to produce a validated ticket will result in fines. Failing to cooperate with inspectors could result in you being arrested.DrivingYou must be at least 18 years of age to drive a car in France. An International Driving Permit is recommended.Speed limits and other driving regulations may be strictly enforced through heavy, on-the-spot fines and the confiscation of a driver's licence. Numerous roadside cameras have been installed to help enforce traffic regulations. Radar detection systems are prohibited.The use of cellular telephones while driving is prohibited, unless the device is fitted with a hands-free device.Traffic must yield way to cars entering an intersection from the right even if entering from smaller roads. Unless otherwise indicated, traffic in the circle must yield to entering vehicles at a roundabout.Penalties for drinking and driving are severe, especially when an incident causes death. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05 percent.A reflective vest and warning triangle are mandatory in all vehicles.Additional information regarding road safety can be found on the European Commission's Mobility and Transport website.MoneyThe currency of France is the euro (EUR).Credit cards and traveller's cheques are widely accepted and automated banking machines are widely available.When crossing one of the external border control points of the European Union (EU), you must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have at least €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller's cheques or any other convertible assets. This does not apply if you are travelling within the EU or in transit to a non-EU country. For more information on the EU legislation and links to EU countries' sites, visit the European Commission's Cash controls website.7. DISASTERS AND CLIMATEAvalanchesIn mountainous regions, avalanches present a risk and have resulted in fatalities. If you are planning on mountaineering or skiing, consult ANENA (in French) for information on weather and safety conditions, and follow the advice carefully.FloodsFloods sometimes occur. The French government maintains a water level forecast service, Vigicrues. Be vigilant, follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local media.Latest information about water levels (vigicrues) – France's Ministère de la Transition écologique et solidaire (in French only)Forest firesForest fires often occur during the summer months, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica. In case of a major fire, stay away from affected areas, follow the advice of local emergency services personnel and monitor local media for up-to-date information. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke and affect travellers with respiratory ailments.

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